Transforming Frustration to Focus: God is not our side project! BSF Lesson 16

Lesson 16 Lecture: God is not our side project: Transforming Frustration to FocusHaggai 1-2In Haggai, the the Prophet is telling the people they are not ready for what God has brought them back into the land for. It was not to have fine houses and fabulous lives. Their purpose was far greater than their creaturely comforts - they were getting Israel prepared for the prophetic fulfillment in the arrival of the Messiah.Readiness is about knowing what’s going on, the game plan, what our purpose and duties are, what we’re supposed to live for and be actively engaged in. Readiness helps us "Batten down the hatches" which means to prepare for a difficult situation, crisis, or storm by securing everything, plugging the holes where water can get in, and getting ready for trouble.Readiness also means understanding God’s timeline and God’s work in the world. He’s the master of world events, and we can only speak about His perfect control if we know what He our sovereign God is doing. If you’re not ready, you’re not steady. If you snooze, you lose. God is never our hobby or side project. He is the Central and Main Lover of our souls who guides us to "green pastures and still waters" (Ps 23) where we can abound to every good things He has created us to be and do. Focus Verse“This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty.”   (Haggai 2:6-7)Doctrine: The Doctrine of SanctificationI. Complacency called out  Haggai 1a.) Complacency's Consequences 1:1-11b.) Complacency's Cure 1:12-15Principle: God’s work done God’s way results in God’s glory.II. Refocused God’s Eternal Priorities  Haggai 2a. Refocused by God’s Presence  2:1–9b. Refocused through God’s Holiness  2:10–19c. Refocused by God’s Promise  2:20–23Principle: Living for God’s glory yields life’s greatest blessing.1. Where are you easily discouraged in your life because you’re chasing the wrong priorities? How can you ask God for His perspective?2. How has God blessed you, even in intangible ways? Did you see His glory revealed when you stepped out in obedience?